DGG RED STEREO Original. Yevgeny Mravinsky conducts the Leningrad Philharmonics in Tchaikovsky's 5th symphony. .
Record is EX+! Cover is VG+! Really great but with biro marking on front cover (see images).

Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64 – DGG Red Stereo ED1 138658 Featuring Evgeny Mravinsky with the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra

The DGG Red Stereo ED1 138658 LP presents Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64, performed by the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra under the legendary Russian conductor Evgeny Mravinsky. Released by Deutsche Grammophon Gesellschaft (DGG), this recording is widely celebrated as one of the definitive interpretations of Tchaikovsky’s emotionally charged symphony, known for its dramatic intensity, lyrical beauty, and structural cohesion. Mravinsky’s authoritative approach and the Leningrad Philharmonic’s powerful, precise playing make this LP a prized item for collectors and a benchmark performance of Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony.

About Evgeny Mravinsky

Evgeny Mravinsky (1903–1988) was one of the Soviet Union’s most distinguished conductors, known for his intense, disciplined interpretations and his close association with Russian and Soviet composers, including Tchaikovsky, Shostakovich, and Prokofiev. Mravinsky’s tenure with the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra spanned nearly 50 years, during which he developed a signature style characterized by precision, control, and an unwavering focus on structural integrity. His interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony is revered for its emotional depth, rhythmic drive, and balance between lyrical and dramatic elements.

The LP and Its Significance

Label and Pressing: The DGG Red Stereo ED1 is part of Deutsche Grammophon’s highly esteemed catalog, especially valued by collectors for its high-quality pressing and remarkable sound fidelity. This original German pressing captures the full dynamic range and tonal depth of Mravinsky’s interpretation and the Leningrad Philharmonic’s performance, making it an essential item for enthusiasts of both Tchaikovsky and historical recordings.

Sound Quality: The sound quality on DGG Red Stereo ED1 138658 is outstanding, with DG’s engineers capturing the power, clarity, and textural richness of the Leningrad Philharmonic’s sound. The recording balances the orchestra’s sections beautifully, allowing listeners to experience the full spectrum of Tchaikovsky’s orchestration, from delicate woodwind solos to thunderous brass and strings. The stereo imaging provides a spacious, immersive soundscape that enhances the dramatic arc of the symphony.

Collectibility: As an original DGG Red Stereo ED1 pressing, 138658 is highly collectible, particularly for fans of Mravinsky, Tchaikovsky, and the Leningrad Philharmonic. This LP is esteemed for its rarity and the authoritative nature of the performance, making it a sought-after item in the classical vinyl market.

About Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64

Composed in 1888, Symphony No. 5 is one of Tchaikovsky’s most popular works, known for its emotional intensity, cyclical structure, and the famous “fate” motif that appears in each movement. This symphony, often seen as a journey from despair to triumph, is marked by its lush orchestration and intricate thematic development, reflecting Tchaikovsky’s inner struggles and his ability to convey raw emotion through music.

The symphony is structured in four movements:

Andante – Allegro con anima: The first movement opens with a brooding clarinet theme, introducing the “fate” motif, which recurs throughout the symphony. The movement progresses into an Allegro section marked by rhythmic vitality and passionate orchestral climaxes, creating a sense of urgency and tension.

Andante cantabile, con alcuna licenza: The second movement features one of Tchaikovsky’s most beloved themes, a lush, lyrical melody for the French horn. This movement explores themes of longing and melancholy, with moments of intensity and tenderness that showcase Tchaikovsky’s gift for lyrical expression.

Valse (Allegro moderato): The third movement is a graceful waltz, contrasting the more serious tone of the first two movements. Its light, dance-like quality provides a moment of respite, yet hints of the “fate” motif linger in the background.

Finale (Andante maestoso – Allegro vivace): The symphony concludes with a triumphant finale, bringing back the “fate” theme in a major key. The movement builds to a powerful, exhilarating climax, reflecting a sense of victory and resolution.

Mravinsky’s interpretation captures the dramatic arc of the symphony, highlighting the emotional weight of the “fate” motif while maintaining structural clarity.

Mravinsky’s Interpretation

Intensity and Precision: Mravinsky’s interpretation is renowned for its intensity and precise control. His disciplined approach brings out the symphony’s structural integrity, allowing the emotional narrative to unfold naturally. His command over the orchestra’s dynamics and tempo gives each movement a sense of direction and purpose.

Emotional Depth and Dramatic Pacing: Mravinsky’s pacing brings out the emotional contrasts in Tchaikovsky’s writing, from the lyrical, melancholic second movement to the dramatic and triumphant finale. His interpretation of the “fate” motif is particularly effective, using dynamic contrasts to emphasize its recurrence and its transformation throughout the symphony.

Rich Orchestral Color: The Leningrad Philharmonic’s dark, full sound complements Mravinsky’s interpretation, adding a richness and weight to Tchaikovsky’s orchestration. The clarity of each section, from the warm strings to the vibrant brass and woodwinds, enhances the symphony’s textural complexity.

Why This Recording is Special

Definitive Performance: Mravinsky’s reading of Tchaikovsky’s Fifth Symphony is considered one of the definitive interpretations, celebrated for its intensity, emotional depth, and structural coherence. His collaboration with the Leningrad Philharmonic captures the Russian spirit of the work, making this LP essential for Tchaikovsky enthusiasts.

High Audiophile Quality: The DGG Red Stereo ED1 pressing is known for its exceptional sound quality, capturing the clarity, warmth, and dynamic range of Mravinsky’s performance. This LP is a favorite among audiophiles for its immersive sound and natural acoustics.

Collector’s Appeal: As an original DGG Red Stereo ED1 pressing, 138658 is highly valued by collectors. The combination of Mravinsky’s authoritative interpretation, the powerful performance by the Leningrad Philharmonic, and the rarity of this pressing make it a prized item in the classical vinyl market.

Conclusion

The DGG Red Stereo ED1 138658 LP, featuring Evgeny Mravinsky conducting the Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra in Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5, is a landmark recording in the Russian Romantic repertoire. Mravinsky’s intense, disciplined interpretation, combined with the Leningrad Philharmonic’s powerful orchestral sound and DG’s high-quality production, makes this LP a treasured possession for collectors and Tchaikovsky enthusiasts alike. Its historical significance, musical excellence, and collectible rarity ensure that this recording remains highly sought-after in the world of classical vinyl collecting.

Record Grading I use the following grades: M/M- Only for still sealed or certain unplayed records NM    Should look very close to unplayed EX+   With very few signs of use EX     Some light signs of use but nothing that should affect the    listening experience VG+   A really nice LP with some signs of use and the can be the odd light click, but nothing major at all VG    There are clear signs of use and there can be some recurring clicks and crackles, but not continously.  G       There are many marks and lines and you should expect that the listening experience will be hampered. But still playable. + and - are used for nuances. P/F    Very rarely used. Only very rare records will be listed in this condition
Shipping If you win more than one of my auctions, I will of course pack it together and you will get the actual shipping cost from Sweden to the world.
Worldwide shipping rates (note that boxes counts as the number of records in the box): 1-2 LPs €18 3-5 Lps €25 6-8 Lps €30 7+ Lps €40
I have many listings, most from one collection in great condition. Most are in top condition. Decca SXL and LXT, Columbia SAX and 33CX, HMV His Master's Voice ASD and ALP, Deutsche Grammophon DGG, Philips Hi-Fi Hifi, Westminster, Proprius, MFSL Mobile Fidelity, and many more.